Earlier in this E-news blast, you should have seen some details about applying to become a Blandin Broadband Community (BBC). I would like to fill in more details about why you should consider this intensive initiative for your community.

If you have connectivity challenges, becoming a BBC can help align your community leadership to pursue better broadband infrastructure and services while implementing short-term connectivity projects.

If you have good broadband in place, but not seeing much change in community tech vitality, the BBC program can spur more sophisticated technology use through shared learning and collaboration experiences.

If no organization is working to address digital equity so that all residents have a device, a connection and computer skills, then the BBC program will shine a spotlight on and provide resources to address this critical issue.

In rural communities, great broadband infrastructure is an essential element of community competitiveness, but building infrastructure is not enough. Becoming a BBC will create a lasting platform for ongoing community innovation and investment.